Q2 · UPSC current affairs · 19 October 2026 · News · MMDR Act Overhaul Mining Regulatory Reform

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With reference to the institutional framework in the mining sector, consider the following bodies:1.District Mineral Foundation2.National Mineral Exploration TrustWhich of the above is established as an autonomous body under the MMDR Act to fund regional and detailed mineral exploration?

A 2 only
B Neither 1 nor 2
C Both 1 and 2
D 1 only

Correct answer: (a) 2 only

Explanation

The National Mineral Exploration Trust is an autonomous body established under the MMDR Act specifically to fund regional and detailed mineral exploration across India. In contrast, the District Mineral Foundation is a statutory non-profit body for the benefit of persons affected by mining activities. Therefore, only statement 2 is correct.

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